Health department inspectors inspect all food establishments in the county at least once a year. Inspection reports with ratings are available upon request. See the rating guide below.

Food inspections also include:

• Reviewing plans for new establishments
• Investigating food complaints
• Investigating foodborne illnesses
• Training of food handlers

For more information, visit the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Division, Department of Agriculture | Food and Nutrition (nj.gov) and the US Food and Drug Administration – Food, Food | FDA.

Ratings of food establishments are based on the “Sanitation in Retail Food Establishments and Food and Beverage Vending Machines,” Chapter 24 (N.J.A.C. 8:24) (Microsoft Word - Chapter 24 Rule Edited 2-6-07A.doc (state.nj.us)). 

An establishment is rated 1) satisfactory, 2) conditional satisfactory or 3) unsatisfactory. Each rating means the following, as written in the code:

• Satisfactory - The establishment is found to be operating in substantial compliance with this chapter (the regulations). Food service personnel have demonstrated that they are aware of (the requirements) and are practicing sanitation and food safety principles as outlined in this chapter.
• Conditional Satisfactory - At the time of the inspection, the establishment was found not to be operating in substantial compliance with this chapter and was in violation of one or more provisions of this chapter. Due to the nature of these violations, a reinspection shall be scheduled. The reinspection shall be conducted at an unannounced time. A full inspection shall be conducted. Opportunity for reinspection shall be offered within a reasonable time and shall be determined by the nature of the violation.
• Unsatisfactory - Whenever a retail food establishment is operating in violation of this chapter, with one or more violations that constitute gross insanitary or unsafe conditions, which pose an imminent health hazard, the health authority shall issue an unsatisfactory evaluation. The health authority shall immediately request the person in charge to voluntarily cease operation until it is shown on reinspection that conditions which warrant an unsatisfactory evaluation no longer exists. The health authority shall institute necessary measures provided by law to assure that the establishment does not prepare or serve food until the establishment is reevaluated. These measures may include embargo, condemnation and injunctive relief.

Program Manager
Mia Castellucci
908-475-7960